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1998: The Toll Keeper Story – A Game Rooted in Indonesian History

Mei 4, 2025

1998: The Toll Keeper Story continues GameChanger Studio’s tradition of creating thought-provoking and artistically rich titles. Their portfolio includes well-received games such as My Lovely Empress, My Lovely Wife, My Lovely Daughter, Ascender, NSFW ~ Not a Simulator For Working, and GoBlock’s Impossible Medley, all of which are available on Steam.

Indonesian game developer GameChanger Studio is taking a bold step into historical narrative with their upcoming title, 1998: The Toll Keeper Story. Inspired by real events, the game is set during the height of Indonesia’s monetary crisis in 1998, under the rule of the nation’s second president, Soeharto.

Rather than telling the story through politicians or soldiers, the game puts players in the shoes of Dewi, a pregnant woman working as a toll gate officer. Her primary duty is seemingly mundane—checking vehicle documents to decide who may pass. But this role quickly becomes more complex and emotional, as Dewi must also protect herself and the unborn child she carries amid growing tension, uncertainty, and social unrest.

The game’s world is fictionalized as a Southeast Asian country named Jenapa, offering creative liberty while still maintaining strong cultural and historical echoes of Indonesia. Players can expect a mix of narrative-driven choices, suspenseful moments, and subtle reflections on real-world issues—presented through personal storytelling rather than grand political drama.

This isn’t GameChanger Studio’s first foray into emotional and thought-provoking narratives. The team is also known for titles like My Lovely Empress, My Lovely Wife, My Lovely Daughter, and Ascender—games that explore dark, fantastical, and often philosophical themes. Their experimental project, NSFW ~ Not a Simulator For Working, and the rhythm-based GoBlock’s Impossible Medley further showcase the studio’s diverse creative range.

With 1998: The Toll Keeper Story, GameChanger Studio aims to blend personal storytelling with historical context—offering players an experience that is as emotionally resonant as it is socially reflective.